Today it is simply a 100 days since the beginning of the engagement of the Territorial Defence Army in Operation “Safe West” by supporting the Border defender at the interior borders of Poland. It is an excellent chance to sum up the effects of this mission, to appreciate the effort put into day by day, and to look into the future and remind us why it is so crucial to us.
Background and substance of the operation
Operation Safe West was undertaken to support the Border defender in tasks related to migration control. As part of this project, WOT soldiers execute patrol and control services in the area at the border with Germany, participating in joint activities with the GSC and the Police. The “Safe West” Command is held by the 14th Western Pomeranian Territorial Defence Brigade.
The operation involves soldiers from 4 brigades:
12 The Wielkopolska OT Brigade,
14 West Pomeranian OT Brigade,
15 Lubuskie OT Brigade,
16 Lower Silesian OT Brigade,
a full of more than 400 WOT soldiers.
What has been achieved?
The permanent, regular presence of territorial troops increases the ability to respond and support the guards, WOT ceased to be just a ‘backup’, became part of the operational border protection structure. In local border communities, the presence of WOT is seen as strengthening security, not military dimension, but real protection and cooperation with residents. Through the cooperation of the SG, HR, Police and WOT, it is possible to better redistribute resources and concentrate the services where tasks are increasing. Developing seamless cooperation in patrols, controls and operational activities, common trust and coordination are crucial.
The Challenges We Faced
An crucial challenge is the sustainability of engagement, the Safe West operation was not planned for respective days, but is of a long-term nature. Maintaining readiness, morale of soldiers, logistical support and rotation of forces are elements requiring constant attention. Equally crucial is social perception, soldiers must act with full compliance and respect for local conditions so that the presence of uniformed formations is seen as a supporting element, not imposing. The operation takes place during changing political, social and migration conditions, flexibility in consequence and adaptation of actions will be necessary.
What's next? Perspectives for the following days
Maintaining a kind of action that combines presence, operational readiness and discretion where there is simply a request for intervention, there to be present, but besides to see the regular needs of citizens. proceed to improve cooperation between SG, HSC, Police, WOT services — so that actions are coordinated, effective and flexible. Consider the rotation of forces, the analysis of efficiency, the introduction of possible tactical adjustments if the migration or external safety situation requires adaptation. keep social engagement, inform border residents, build dialogue, civilian knowing of the function of the WOT in border protection.
Appreciation Word
Within 100 days of the operation Safe West, hundreds of WOT soldiers make regular efforts to service the country, despite difficult, volatile and demanding conditions. Our presence makes a difference, not just the service, but the mission. We besides thank all cooperating: Border Guards, Military Police, Local Administrative Structures, border residents for their support, knowing and cooperation.
Mr Arkadiusz SECULA
Press spokesperson ZZ Safe West